>>2024587>If you're running 1x with a rear derailleur you NEED a narrow-wide chainring or a chain guide.That's not true. I have a bike setup like that and the chain retention is fine as long as you're not popping off curbs or riding trails.
problem is that ops bike is mega cheap shit. I think you're right that a chain guide is a good solution. I would just use an old front derailer where the cage can be split with a screw so he doesn't have to break his chain to install it, and where the low limit can be wound in enough to put it in the right place. Those work well as chain guides.
I think his chain is also probably too long. Shortening it to the minimum possible length to wrap the big cog would help chain retention. It's also worth seeing if the derailer pivots smoothly, and that could probably be improved, but really, some parts bin altus/ acera mech would be a big upgrade which wouldn't have to cost anything and would help.
>>2024555mate his drivetrain is complete shit. That's the problem. He's already had several mechanics futzing with it. A chain guide is a bandaid solution but it's not a bad idea and the cost for a chinese one, or, a parts bin fd, is minimal.
